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Temescal's Genova Delicatessen Will Close April 30

The cost of doing business was too much

Genova Delicatessen
Genova Delicatessen
Bay News Now

Fans of Genova's Delicatessen have been anxiously waiting for a resolution that would allow the 90-year-old institution to continue operating in its Temescal location. Unfortunately, that won't be the case, as the deli has announced that it will close by the end of the month.

In a statement on the deli's website, owner Dominic DeVincenzi wished loyal customers a fond farewell:

A message from Dominic DeVincenzi & family.

After 90 years in business we have decided to close our Oakland store at the end of April.

We are humbled by all the good wishes and love from the community and want to thank you for so many years of support. 

Stock up on Genova House Wine, ravioli, sauce and lasagne and find our products at Berkeley Bowl, Magnani Poltry, Farmer Joe's Harvest Market, Zarrie's Market, Harvest Market, United Market 2 & 4, Granzella & Yasai Market.

Our Napa store will not be affected and we hope to make it another 90 years.

When the news of the popular Italian store's possible demise was first reported, rising rents were cited as part of the issue as Genova negotiated with its landlord Temescal Plaza. At the time, representative John Dobrovich said, in a statement, that the two groups were working to reach a resolution. Now, while rising rents are undoubtedly part of the reason for the closure, Patti DeVincenzi told Mercury News that the cost of doing business in Oakland was the biggest factor, saying that the deli would be forced to raise prices if it stayed.

Temescal Plaza hopes to maintain a deli in the space, and possibly hire the 20 employees that will be out of a job when Genova shuts down for good. In the meantime, the Napa store will remain in business, as will the Oakland production facility that produces the Genova line of pastas and sauces.

Stop by Genova before their final day of business on April 30 for some antipasti, a giant Italian sandwich and goodbyes.

Genova Delicatessen & Ravioli

5095 Telegraph Ave #A, Oakland, CA 94609 (510) 652-7401 Visit Website